The 2026 World Cup risks becoming “a stage for repression and a platform for authoritarian practices”, according to a new report from Amnesty.
The organisation has detailed “significant risks” to fans, players, journalists, workers and local communities across the United States, Mexico and Canada. These concerns stretch beyond sport into broader human rights realities.
Highlighting “troubling attacks on human rights”, Amnesty claims the “starkest threat” to visitors may be “the machine of abusive, discriminatory and deadly immigration enforcement and mass detention in the USA”.
And it warns “severe restrictions on freedom of expression and peaceful protest” threaten the “safe, welcoming and inclusive” tournament promised by Fifa. As a result, questions around accountability are growing louder.
The US is due to host 78 matches across 11 cities, while Canada and Mexico will stage 13 games each. Yet, scale alone cannot overshadow the ethical concerns now surfacing.
Human Rights fears intensify as global tournament faces scrutiny in North America
In its 36-page report titled “Humanity Must Win: Defending rights, tackling repression at the 2026 FIFA World Cup,” Amnesty urges action. It calls on governments and football bodies to “meet their obligations under international human rights law…”
“The US government has deported more than 500,000 people from the USA in 2025, more than six times as many people than will watch the World Cup final in the MetLife Stadium”, said Steve Cockburn.
“…It’s a deeply troubling time in the US, which will certainly extend to fans who want to take part in World Cup celebrations.” That sentiment indicates growing unease among observers.
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Meanwhile, US Immigration and Customs Enforcement insists it is “a key part of the overall security apparatus for the World Cup”. Officials say they are “dedicated to ensuring that everyone… will have a safe and secure event”.
However, critics remain unconvinced by such assurances. Amnesty says ICE and other agencies “pose a chilling threat to people living in the US, those traveling to see a game, and players themselves”.
“Despite the astounding numbers of arrests and deportations, neither Fifa nor the US authorities have provided any guarantees…” Cockburn added, pointing to fears of profiling and unlawful detention.
Beyond the US, concerns extend further across host nations. Amnesty highlights risks in Mexico linked to cartel violence and heavy security responses.
In Canada, the group warns a worsening housing crisis could displace vulnerable communities. It argues that preparations may push marginalized people further aside. Still, officials maintain confidence in their plans. The White House insists the tournament will be “the largest, safest, and most welcoming sporting event in history”.
Tags: Amnesty, World Cup 2026, US, Canada, Mexico, human rights, repression.
